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New Terms of Service for Clergy

 

Proposals to give clergy the same rights in legislation as employees are making progress. Following a report discussed at Synod in February, an implementation group is developing legislation to bring in Common Tenure, giving greater security to clergy without the freehold, on time-limited appointments or who can be summarily dismissed by the bishop. They will also be able to appeal to an employment tribunal over unfair dismissal.

In cases where clergy are failing to perform to a minimum standard, they will be subject to a Capability Procedure. Following legislation, it is expected that all new clergy appointments, including bishops, archdeacons and cathedral clergy, will be made under the terms of Common Tenure. Clergy with the freehold of their parish, and not at present subject to a Capability Procedure, will be invited to "opt in" to Common Tenure.